TREND: MOISTURE SHOT
Dehydration is an all too common skincare gripe. So the latest flurry of trans-seasonal hydration boosters (see below right) formulated to save parched faces are a welcome addition. The main active ingredients include moisture-loving hyaluronic acid, silver hydrosol with anti-inflammatory soothers, and ceramides that improve skin-barrier function. Take your pick and give your skin a real treat.
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ROAD TEST
This week I try ... a gloss and blow-dry
The lowdown I am all set for my regular appointment with my trusty hair colourist, Damien Rayner, when he is stricken with the flu. Feeling in need of a boost, I visit Alan Buki in Sydney's Paddington to test drive his eponymous gloss treatment. This promises to give my hair a quick lift, adding shine and a gentle refresh to my colour. (I just want it noted that this is not an act of treason.) Alan applies O&M Liquid CCT, which is a clear gloss that contains argan and macadamia oil and is ammonia-free. As a result it adds shine and moisture without compromising the existing colour.
Pain factor Next to a pedicure, a blow-dry is my all-time favourite beauty boost. If the hair looks good, everything else falls into place.
Downtime Just over an hour – the gloss treatment takes about 20 minutes to apply and cure and the blow-dry adds another 45 minutes.
Results My hair looks fresh and wonderfully shiny and the grey hair on my part line is diminished. This is a great instant fix for when you don't have time to sit in the chair for three hours for a full colour.
Where to get it Sydney: Alan Buki for O&M Sydney, $65, (02) 9361 3977. Melbourne: Rhubarb Hair in Brunswick East, $150, rhubarbhair.com.
At home Try O&M Frizzy Logic Shine Serum, $32, originalmineral.com.
CULT FOLLOWING
L'Occitane works with the women of Burkina Faso in Africa to produce this moisturiser's wonder ingredient – shea butter – sustainably. This latest incarnation has an enticing vanilla scent. L'Occitane Ultra Soft Cream, 100ml, $34, loccitane.com.au.
WE ASK AN EXPERT
Dr Liang Joo Leow, dermatologist, The Skin & Cancer Foundation
Is it necessary to reapply sunscreen during a normal working day?
"No, provided you apply an adequate amount as part of the morning routine. Top up during prolonged periods in the sun, or when exposed to water and sweat." Try Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Sunscreen 50+, $17.
